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Inspiring Adlai Stevenson Quotes on Leadership, Diplomacy, and Democracy

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Adlai Ewing Stevenson II (February 5, 1900 – July 14, 1965) was an American politician and diplomat who played a significant role in American politics in the mid-20th century. Here is an overview of his life and career:

1. Early Life and Education: Adlai Stevenson was born in Los Angeles, California. He came from a family with a long history of political involvement; his grandfather served as Vice President of the United States. Stevenson attended Princeton University and then Harvard Law School.

2. Legal Career: After completing his law degree, Stevenson began practicing law in Chicago. He was known for his eloquence and legal skills.

3. Political Career: Stevenson entered politics as an assistant to the Secretary of State of Illinois and later served as special counsel to the U.S. Department of State during World War II. He was appointed by President Harry S. Truman as a delegate to the United Nations and served as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations from 1961 to 1965.

4. Presidential Campaigns: Stevenson twice ran for President of the United States as the Democratic Party's nominee. He was the Democratic candidate in the 1952 and 1956 presidential elections. While he lost both elections to Republican Dwight D. Eisenhower, he was known for his articulate speeches and as a principled, intellectual politician.

5. Views and Ideology: Stevenson was a progressive and advocated for many liberal policies, including civil rights and universal healthcare. He was known for his emphasis on diplomacy and international cooperation during the Cold War.

6. Legacy: Adlai Stevenson is often remembered as one of the most eloquent and thoughtful political leaders of his time. He was a strong advocate for international diplomacy and peace, which he pursued during his time as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. He had a significant impact on the Democratic Party and the liberal wing of American politics.

7. Death: Stevenson passed away in 1965 at the age of 65. His legacy as a statesman and a leading figure in the Democratic Party continues to be remembered and respected.

Stevenson's impact on American politics was significant, particularly in the realm of foreign policy and diplomacy. His intellectual and principled approach to politics and his commitment to liberal values left a lasting legacy in American political thought.


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I can provide you with a selection of notable quotes attributed to Adlai Stevenson:

1. "Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime."

2. "We travel together, passengers on a little spaceship, dependent on its vulnerable reserves of air and soil, all committed, for our safety, to its security and peace. Preserved from annihilation only by the care, the work, and I will say, the love we give our fragile craft."

3. "The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step."

4. "Nature is indifferent to the survival of the human species, including Americans."

5. "The idea that you can merchandise candidates for high office like breakfast cereal is the ultimate indignity to the democratic process."

6. "I am convinced that the best service a retired general can perform is to turn in his tongue along with his suit, and to mothball his opinions."

7. "To act coolly, intelligently and prudently in perilous circumstances is the test of a man—and also a nation."

8. "In America, anybody can be president. That's one of the risks you take."

9. "The relationship between press and politician—protected by the Constitution and designed to be happily adversarial—becomes sour, raw, and ultimately deadly when political power and the press become co-dependent."

10. "Your days are short here; this is the last of your springs. And now in the serenity and quiet of this lovely place, touch the depths of truth, feel the hem of Heaven. You will go away with old, good friends. And don't forget when you leave why you came."


11. "It's hard to lead a cavalry charge if you think you look funny on a horse."

12. "Do not fold, spindle, or mutilate."

13. "The idea that you can merchandise candidates for high office like breakfast cereal is the ultimate indignity to the democratic process."

14. "The time to stop a revolution is at the beginning, not the end."

15. "I believe that if we really want human brotherhood to spread and increase until it makes life safe and sane, we must also be certain that there is no one true faith or path by which it may spread."

16. "A free society is a place where it's safe to be unpopular."

17. "Man does not live by words alone, despite the fact that sometimes he has to eat them."

18. "We are not in the business of iron curtain politics."

19. "The relationship between press and politician—protected by the Constitution and designed to be happily adversarial—becomes sour, raw, and ultimately deadly when political power and the press become co-dependent."

20. "There was a time when a fool and his money were soon parted, but now it happens to everybody."

Adlai Stevenson was known for his wit and eloquence, and his speeches and quotes often reflected his thoughtful approach to politics and diplomacy. However, his documented quotes are not as numerous as some other historical figures.

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